Even though there are a couple of moments where I was knocked out of the story by what can only be described as the heroine's too-stupid-too-live moments (like when she steals [yes steals--and then sinks] a boat to follow the hero up a bayou waterway), I'm glad to have read this.

I love the way the author takes the reader on the journey of healing that Jake must go through to rejoin the living. The guilt he feels about his wife's death, his inability to talk about his emotions, the way his friends all stand back from him, hoping but not interfering, all strike me as true to the masculine method of coping and made this a real emotional journey. The author also has a talent for painting memorable moments. It doesn't hurt either that she makes me hear Jake's soft Cajun lilt in my mind, ensuring that Jake will stand out when I remember the best heroes.

Stephanie Grant's first step onto the secret third floor of Chez Sophia frightens her ... and strengthens her resolve. Here in New Orleans, in this luxurious world of beautiful women, wealthy men, and heady champagne, she's about to begin a perilous charade to find her missing sister. But her most recklessand thrillingjourney will be surrendering to the spell of one man's desire.

Her guide will be Jake Broussard, the bartender and ex-cop who immediately sees through her act and becomes her ally. As his eyes and soft Cajun accent send her senses reeling, she'll find herself experiencing pleasure for the very first time in her life...and losing control. Her defenses are about to slip away with her satin gown and her lacy lingerie, baring her body and soul.